Markus Lanz talk show covers SPD crisis and BSW political strategy

The ZDF talk show ‘Markus Lanz’ has featured several high-profile political discussions during late August 2026.

On August 26, the program focused on the crisis facing the SPD, voter shifts toward the AfD, and internal coalition reform debates. Guests included SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch, journalist Dagmar Rosenfeld, and Olaf Sundermeyer. Discussions also touched upon the ‘Bürgergeld’ social welfare system and its perceived impact on political sentiment.

On August 27, the discussion shifted to the Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW). Topics included the party’s internal power struggles, its relationship with the AfD, and its potential for governing. Guests included Thuringia Finance Minister Katja Wolf and journalist Anne Hähnig, with a focus on the political climate in East Germany and upcoming state elections.